Zesty Lemon Pepper Recipe: Elevate Your Dinner Tonight!

The zesty aroma of lemon pepper wafts through the kitchen, igniting a culinary adventure that promises to tantalize your taste buds. Each bite bursts with vibrant flavors, balancing the bright citrus with a peppery kick that dances on your palate.

This dish can transform any ordinary dinner into a festive occasion, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy family nights. Imagine the laughter echoing as everyone digs in, savoring the delightful blend of spices and fresh ingredients.

I remember serving this lemon pepper dish at my cousin’s wedding; everyone couldn’t stop raving about it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Lemons: Choose firm lemons with vibrant yellow skin for maximum zest and juice.

• Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper enhances flavor; avoid pre-ground for the best results.

• Chicken Thighs: Boneless and skinless thighs are juicy; they soak up flavors beautifully.

• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for rich flavor and healthy fats.

• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; opt for whole cloves instead of pre-minced.

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only brightens the dish but also adds a pop of color.

• Salt: Don’t forget salt to balance flavors; kosher salt works well here.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by gathering all the ingredients on your countertop. Chop the parsley and mince the garlic, letting their fresh aromas fill your kitchen.

Zest and Juice the Lemons: Using a zester or grater, zest two lemons until you see their bright yellow skin. Squeeze out all the juice into a bowl, avoiding any seeds that might sneak in.

Season the Chicken Thighs: Pat dry about four chicken thighs with paper towels. In a separate bowl, mix lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag or bowl. Pour the lemon mixture over them. Seal tightly or cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor penetration.

Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (around 375°F/190°C). If grilling, cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Garnish and Serve!: Once cooked through, remove chicken from heat. Sprinkle chopped parsley over each thigh before serving to add freshness. Pair with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or rice.

Now you’re ready to impress friends and family with this delightful lemon pepper dish that’s sure to be unforgettable!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by seasoning your proteins generously with lemon pepper before cooking. Sear them in a hot pan to lock in flavors, then finish cooking at a lower temperature for juicy results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap fresh lemon juice for bottled lemon juice if you’re short on time. Adding garlic powder or fresh herbs can also enhance the flavor profile of your dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to prevent drying out, preserving that delicious lemon pepper zing.

The first time I made lemon pepper chicken, my friends declared it “life-changing.” Their enthusiasm was contagious, and I’ve since learned that this simple seasoning can turn any meal into a celebration.

FAQ

What dishes pair well with lemon pepper?

Lemon pepper complements grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, seafood, and even pasta salads beautifully.

Can I make my own lemon pepper seasoning?

Absolutely! Mix equal parts dried lemon zest and black pepper along with salt for a homemade blend.

How do I make lemon pepper sauce?

Combine melted butter, fresh lemon juice, and lemon pepper seasoning for a quick and tasty drizzle.

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Lemon Pepper Chicken: A Zesty Delight

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Elevate your dinner with this Lemon Pepper Chicken recipe, where vibrant flavors meet effortless preparation. The zesty aroma of fresh lemons and the kick of cracked black pepper create a dish that impresses at any gathering. Perfectly marinated chicken thighs burst with flavor and are ready in under an hour, making it a delightful choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling or Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 fresh lemons (zested and juiced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)

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Instructions

1. Gather all ingredients. Chop parsley and mince garlic.
2. Zest and juice the lemons, avoiding seeds.
3. Pat chicken thighs dry. In a bowl, mix lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
4. Marinate chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
5. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat (375°F/190°C). Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (approx. 130g)
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 31g
• Cholesterol: 110mg